Imperial 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca

After breakfast at your hotel, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca begins with a visit to the iconic Hassan II Mosque. Situated on a headland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this architectural masterpiece is the second-largest mosque in Africa and one of Morocco’s most impressive religious monuments.

From Casablanca, you will travel along the beautiful coastal road to the charming port town of Essaouira. As you arrive, you’ll first explore the old Portuguese fortress, famous for its imposing cannons pointing toward the sea—a testament to the town’s rich maritime history.

A visit to the bustling fishing port is a must. Here, you can select fresh fish, shellfish, or seafood and have it prepared on the spot—a unique culinary experience Essaouira is known for. If you’re feeling adventurous, trying a freshly caught oyster is a delicious option.

After enjoying the seaside atmosphere, you’ll take a leisurely walk through the old medina of Essaouira, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with charming shops, art galleries, and local crafts. By evening, you’ll be transferred to your riad or hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.

Today is a leisurely day in Essaouira, giving you the freedom to explore this charming coastal town at your own pace. As part of your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca, you have ample time to soak in the relaxed atmosphere and discover Essaouira’s unique blend of culture, history, and seaside beauty.

You may choose to continue wandering through the narrow streets of the medina, where colorful shops, art galleries, and artisan workshops await. For art enthusiasts, a visit to one of the many artist museums is highly recommended. Essaouira’s artistic heritage, inspired by its coastal location and multicultural history, is truly captivating.

If you prefer nature, an extensive beach walk along Essaouira’s sandy coastline is a wonderful way to unwind. Alternatively, you can opt for a trip to the stunning Sidi Kaouki Beach, located about 30 kilometers from Essaouira. Known for its kilometer-long sandy shore, this tranquil beach offers pristine beauty and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for relaxation or even surfing.

Enjoy another overnight stay at your riad or hotel in Essaouira, resting up for the adventures to come.

After a leisurely breakfast at your riad or hotel in Essaouira, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca continues with a scenic drive south toward the bustling city of Marrakech. The route offers fascinating glimpses of Moroccan rural life and natural beauty.

Along the way, you’ll encounter one of Morocco’s most unusual sights—goats climbing argan trees. These nimble animals are often seen perched on the branches, feeding on the argan fruit. Naturally, we will stop to allow you to take photographs and perhaps even feed the goats. This unique spectacle is a highlight of the journey and a perfect opportunity for memorable photos.

Upon arrival in Marrakech, you will be dropped off at your riad located in the heart of the medina. Take some time to relax and settle in. The rest of the day is yours to explore Marrakech’s vibrant streets, bustling markets, and captivating atmosphere at your leisure.

Overnight stay in your riad in Marrakech, preparing for a day of exploration in the Red City.

The day begins with your first typical Moroccan breakfast in Marrakech, featuring freshly baked pita bread, egg dishes, and the classic sweet green mint tea. Today, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca focuses on exploring the rich culture and historical sites of Marrakech with a knowledgeable local guide.

Your guide will meet you at your riad or hotel and take you on a fascinating three-hour tour of Marrakech’s medina. The exploration includes some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, beginning with the Koutoubia Mosque, famous for its towering minaret visible from various points in the city. You’ll also visit the Saadian Tombs, which were hidden for centuries and rediscovered in 1917, revealing beautiful mausoleums adorned with intricate decorations.

Another highlight of the tour is the Bahia Palace, a stunning 19th-century royal residence known for its exquisite craftsmanship, serene courtyards, and lavishly decorated rooms. The palace offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Morocco’s former rulers.

If time allows, spend the late afternoon or evening exploring the vibrant Jemaa el-Fna Square on your own. This bustling square comes alive with storytellers, musicians, jugglers, and market stalls selling everything from traditional crafts to exotic spices. A horse-drawn carriage ride is another charming way to explore the surroundings.

After a day of sightseeing, you’ll return to your riad or hotel for a relaxing overnight stay, preparing for more adventures ahead.

Today, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca continues with an exciting journey through the High Atlas Mountains. After breakfast, you’ll depart from Marrakech and travel along the scenic Tizi n’Tichka Pass, situated at an elevation of 2,260 meters. This breathtaking mountain pass offers stunning panoramic views of the rugged landscape and Berber villages dotted along the hillsides.

As you descend from the pass, you’ll reach the historic Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional earthen architecture. This ancient settlement has served as a backdrop for countless films and series, including Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Exploring its narrow streets and high terraces will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

Next, you’ll continue to Ouarzazate, often called the “Hollywood of Morocco” for its famous film studios and cinematic landscapes. This bustling city is also known for its Kasbah Taourirt, a beautiful example of traditional Moroccan architecture.

From Ouarzazate, the journey leads you through the Valley of Roses, renowned for its cultivation of fragrant Damask roses. In the spring, the entire valley blooms with roses, and local shops offer a variety of rose-based products such as perfumes, soaps, body creams, and essential oils.

The drive continues along the Road of a Thousand Kasbahs, a region filled with ancient fortresses and picturesque villages, illustrating the importance of this former trade route. By evening, you will arrive in Boumalne Dades, where you will spend the night in a traditional hotel or riad.

After breakfast at your riad or hotel in Boumalne Dades, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca continues with an exciting journey through Morocco’s most dramatic landscapes.

The first stop is the Dades Gorge, known for its rugged rock formations and towering canyon walls. The bubbling, crystal-clear waters of the Dades River wind through the narrow gorge, creating a serene and picturesque setting. The steep, winding roads offer incredible panoramic views and showcase the natural beauty of this remarkable area.

Shortly after, you’ll visit the breathtaking Todra Gorge, located at 1,550 meters above sea level near the Berber town of Tinghir. This impressive natural wonder features towering limestone walls that reach up to 300 meters high, forming a narrow passage that attracts hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Continuing the journey toward Merzouga, you’ll pass through diverse landscapes filled with bizarre rock formations, lush oasis valleys, and ancient kasbahs. En route, you will stop in Erfoud, a town known for its rich fossil deposits. Here, you’ll visit a local workshop where skilled artisans craft beautiful jewelry and home decor items from regional fossil finds—a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s geological heritage.

By late afternoon, you will arrive at Merzouga, where the first golden sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi Desert rise majestically against the horizon. After checking into your hotel or desert camp, you’ll embark on an unforgettable camel ride into the dunes at sunset. The serene beauty of the desert, combined with the changing colors of the sky, makes this experience truly magical.

Capture the moment with your camera and enjoy the peaceful ambiance before returning to your camp or hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

After a hearty Moroccan breakfast featuring tajine-cooked eggs, fresh bread, olives, and delicious pastries, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca continues with a fascinating regional tour of the Merzouga Desert. Today’s experience offers a deeper look into the unique culture, traditions, and natural wonders of the Sahara Desert.

You’ll begin your day by driving through the Erg Chebbi dunes, exploring vast plains known for their fossil deposits and the remnants of old eyeliner coal mines. The desert landscape is both striking and mysterious, with its expansive views and hidden historical sites.

One of the highlights of the day is a visit to a Gnawa music house, where you’ll be welcomed by the rhythmic sounds of traditional Gnawa music. Passed down through generations, this unique genre combines African, Berber, and Islamic influences to create an unforgettable musical experience.

Continuing the journey, you’ll share tea with a local nomad family under their traditional tent made of hand-woven dark wool. This authentic encounter provides insight into the nomadic way of life and their incredible hospitality.

For lunch, you’ll enjoy a regional specialty known as Madfouna, often referred to as Berber pizza. This hearty dish, sometimes baked over an open fire, offers a delicious taste of the Sahara Desert’s culinary traditions.

The afternoon is yours to relax or explore the sand dunes on your own. Whether you prefer a quiet walk across the golden sands or wish to try sandboarding, your hotel or desert camp can provide the necessary equipment.

Dinner and overnight stay will be at your hotel or desert camp in Merzouga, providing the perfect end to a day filled with cultural discovery and relaxation.

Today, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca begins early as you leave the Merzouga Desert and embark on a scenic journey toward Fes. This route offers a diverse blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it one of the most memorable legs of your tour.

The first highlight of the day is a stop at the picturesque Ziz Valley, where thousands of palm trees create a lush oasis stretching along the river. The contrast between the vibrant greenery and the surrounding arid landscapes is truly breathtaking—a perfect spot for photographs.

Your journey continues through the Middle Atlas Mountains, offering cooler temperatures and stunning mountain views. As you wind your way through the scenic terrain, there will be opportunities to pause for refreshments and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

A highlight of this drive is passing through Ifrane National Park, known for its extensive Moroccan cedar forests—some of the largest in the country. If you’re lucky, you may encounter the Barbary macaques that inhabit the area. Although feeding them is permitted, it’s essential to do so with caution.

As the landscape transitions from rugged mountains to lush greenery, you’ll pass through the region often referred to as “Moroccan Switzerland.” Known for its alpine-style houses, picturesque scenery, and cool climate, this area feels like a world away from the desert landscapes you experienced in Merzouga.

A brief stop in the mountain town of Ifrane, famous for its clean streets, European-inspired architecture, and tranquil parks, offers a refreshing change of pace before continuing your journey to Fes.

Upon arrival in Fes, you will be taken to your accommodation—an authentic riad located within the ancient medina. Overnight in Fes.

After breakfast at your riad in Fes, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca continues with a full-day guided exploration of Fes, one of Morocco’s most culturally rich and historically significant cities. Known for its ancient medina, Fes offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s past and present.

Your expert local guide will meet you at your riad and lead you through the medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest car-free urban area in the world. As you navigate the labyrinth of narrow streets, you will visit several of the city’s most iconic sites.

The tour begins with the impressive Royal Palace, known for its imposing golden gate and massive city walls. From there, you will explore the bustling tanneries, where leather is still dyed using traditional methods. Watching artisans work from above provides a unique perspective into one of Fes’s oldest crafts.

Other highlights include the beautifully designed Medersa Al Attarine, a former Islamic school renowned for its intricate tilework and architecture, and the Nejjarine Fountain, a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship.

You will also visit Al-Qarawiyyin University, which is considered the oldest continually operating university in the world. Established in 859 AD, this institution has been a center of learning and culture for over a millennium.

As you continue your tour, the medina’s narrow streets reveal a vibrant world filled with spice stalls, traditional handicrafts, Berber carpets, and local artisan shops. The sensory experience of Fes is unmatched—rich with history, culture, and local charm.

After enjoying lunch at a typical local restaurant within the medina, you will be transferred back to your riad for a relaxing evening. Overnight stay in Fes.

After breakfast at your riad in Fes, your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca continues with a scenic journey toward the blue city of Chefchaouen, nestled in the Rif Mountains. Today’s route offers a fascinating mix of imperial history, Roman heritage, and stunning natural beauty.

The first stop is Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities. Known for its imposing gates, historical monuments, and tranquil atmosphere, Meknes offers a charming contrast to the bustling cities of Fes and Marrakech. As you explore the city, you’ll discover its grand architecture and remnants of its glory under Sultan Moulay Ismail.

Continuing the journey, you’ll arrive at Volubilis, an ancient Roman settlement dating back to the 3rd century. Famous for its well-preserved arches, basins, mosaics, and wall remains, Volubilis offers a captivating insight into Morocco’s Roman past. Walking among these remarkable ruins surrounded by rolling countryside is a truly unique experience.

As you leave Volubilis, the landscape gradually shifts to lush greenery, reminiscent of European countryside—an unexpected but beautiful contrast to Morocco’s desert and mountain regions. By afternoon, you will arrive in Chefchaouen, the enchanting blue-washed town known for its tranquil medina and vibrant artistic community.

Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Chefchaouen. The evening is yours to explore this charming town, where cobbled streets, picturesque alleys, and colorful murals create an unforgettable atmosphere. A relaxed walk through the medina is highly recommended, especially as the town glows under the fading light of the day.

Overnight stay in Chefchaouen.

Option 1: Free Day in Chefchaouen
Your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca offers a relaxing day to explore Chefchaouen at your own pace. This charming blue-washed town nestled in the Rif Mountains offers plenty to see and experience.

Spend your day wandering through the medina’s narrow streets, where small shops sell unique local goods, handicrafts, and souvenirs. A visit to the local hammam is a great way to experience traditional Moroccan relaxation and wellness. Alternatively, explore the Kasbah, a 15th-century fortress that offers fascinating insights into the town’s history.

If you wish to venture beyond the medina, consider a short hike to visit the nearby watercourses and fountains, surrounded by lush greenery. As the day winds down, make your way to the Spanish Mosque situated on a hilltop. Watching the sunset over Chefchaouen and the Rif Mountains from here is an unforgettable experience.

Dinner and overnight stay in your riad or hotel in Chefchaouen.

Option 2: Chefchaouen – Tangier – Asilah
Alternatively, you can choose to continue your 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca with a scenic coastal drive. After breakfast, you’ll leave Chefchaouen and travel toward Tangier, also known as the “Bride of the North.” This bustling city is uniquely situated at the meeting point of the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean in the Strait of Gibraltar.

Upon arrival in Tangier, you’ll have free time to explore the vibrant medina and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. From there, the tour continues to the famous Cave of Hercules, a natural wonder steeped in local legends and offering breathtaking views of the ocean.

By afternoon, you will reach the charming coastal town of Asilah, located directly along the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its artistic community, Asilah is filled with colorful murals, quaint art galleries, and beautiful ocean views. If you’re visiting during the annual artists’ festival, you may even discover freshly painted murals adorning the town’s walls.

Take some time to explore the medina of Asilah before settling into your accommodation for the night. The serene atmosphere of this coastal town provides the perfect ending to another incredible day of exploration.

Dinner and overnight stay in Asilah.

Your final day of the 12 Day Morocco Tour from Casablanca begins with a drive from Asilah along the Atlantic coast toward Rabat, the capital of Morocco and one of the country’s four imperial cities. Known for its elegant architecture and rich history, Rabat offers a fascinating blend of past and present.

During your visit to Rabat, you will explore several important historical sites, including:

• Hassan Tower – An unfinished minaret from the 12th century that remains one of Rabat’s most iconic landmarks.

• Mausoleum of Mohammed V – A beautifully designed resting place for the former king, adorned with intricate mosaics and guarded by traditional royal guards.

• Kasbah of the Udayas – A charming Andalusian-style fortress with white-and-blue-painted houses. From its terrace, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Bou Regreg River as it flows into the Atlantic Ocean.

After exploring Rabat, the journey continues to Casablanca, Morocco’s bustling economic hub. Upon arrival, we will transfer you directly to Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your 12 Day Morocco Trip from Casablanca.